Warm-up Questions:

Have you ever attended a business dinner before? If so, where and when was it?

What are some customs or traditions in your culture surrounding formal meals or dinners?

What are some ways that you can make a good impression when meeting someone for the first time?

Vocabulary:

1. Etiquette - the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

2. Protocol - the rules of etiquette that govern the behavior of people in official or ceremonial situations.

3. Engaging - charming and attractive.

4. Professionalism - the competence or skill expected of a professional.

5. Gracious - courteous, kind, and pleasant, especially towards someone of lower social status.

6. Attire - clothes, especially for a particular occasion or purpose.

Article:

How to Make a Good Impression at Business Dinners

Business dinners are a common occurrence in the business world. They are usually organized for networking purposes, to establish new business relationships, or to celebrate a successful partnership. Therefore, it is essential to know how to make a good impression when attending such events. Below are some tips on how to do so:

Dress appropriately: Dressing appropriately is crucial in business dinners. The attire you choose should be professional and match the formality of the event. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or too casual.

Know the etiquette and protocol: Every culture has its etiquette and protocol when it comes to formal events, including business dinners. Knowing the proper etiquette and protocol shows that you are professional and respectful.

Be engaging: When meeting new people, be engaging and show interest in them. Engage in meaningful conversations, ask questions, and listen actively. This will help establish a good relationship and build trust.

Practice professionalism: Your behavior and actions should be professional at all times. This means being punctual, avoiding negative comments or complaints, and avoiding discussing controversial topics.

Be gracious: Being gracious and polite towards everyone you meet is a vital part of making a good impression. This includes showing gratitude towards the organizers, thanking the servers, and offering compliments where appropriate.

Follow up: After the dinner, it is essential to follow up with those you met. This could be a simple email or message expressing your appreciation for the event and your desire to keep in touch.

Discussion Questions:

Have you ever attended a business dinner? If so, what was it like?

What are some common etiquette and protocol rules in your culture when it comes to formal events?

Do you think making a good impression at business dinners is important? Why or why not?

What are some other ways to make a good impression in professional settings?

How do you usually follow up with someone after a networking event?